The common cold. MRSA. Strep throat. E. coli. Swine flu. These are just five of the 212 reasons why you should make sure your hands are clean.

That's because when germs are on your hands, you risk infection every time you touch your eyes, nose or mouth.

It takes just 15 to 20 seconds to make sure your hands are germ-free. So wash your hands ...

... before you eat.

... after you use the bathroom.

... after you cough or sneeze.

... after taking out the trash.

... after petting an animal.

... before and after caring for a sick person.

... after you handle money.

... after touching things many other people have touched: doorknobs, stair rails, etc.

... anytime your hands feel dirty (they probably are).

Check out the rest of our Web site for tools you can use to remind yourself and others to adopt better hand hygiene.